When it comes to vacationing in New York, the Catskills are probably the first thing that comes to mind. But let us (politely) point the compass to the west – to the Finger Lakes. In particular, Ithacathe perfect home base to explore the crime-ridden area.
After you arrive (at Argos historic hotel), get ready for incredible hikes along rocky gorges and cascading waterfalls, lazy afternoons on the lake, rich history (see: birthplace of the women’s suffrage movement near Seneca Falls), farm-to-table dinners, day trips to beautiful villages and towns (don’t miss Skaneateles), and some of the world’s most interesting rieslings. We raise a glass to it.
🥾 We wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t tell you to get out. Of course, the 11 Finger Lakes are an obvious draw (think: boating, kayaking, paddleboarding), but the area also has hundreds of miles of trails and an impressive number of waterfalls—many in or around Ithaca.
Some of the most popular? In Taughannock Falls Canyon Trail (for dramatic views of a waterfall taller than Niagara Falls); Watkins Glen State Parkwhere the canyon road goes around 19 waterfalls and looks like something from a fantasy novel; and Robert Treman State Park (bring a snorkel to swim under the Lower Falls). But if you’re more into peaceful walks than climbing (we get it), the Cornell Botanical Garden offer a surprisingly peaceful escape.
🍷 With over 100 wineries, the Finger Lakes are basically New York’s version of Napa – except much more affordable and relaxed. Whatever you follow one of the established wine trails (we partially Seneca Lakethe biggest and possibly the most unusual) or map out your own walk, expect plenty of Riesling, Chardonnay and Franc – the main protagonists of the region.
Be sure to stop by: Ravines Wine Cellars (bone-drying pioneer, super-mineral riesling of the region); Cellars (the A+ atmosphere and the juice can’t be beat); and Red Newt nests (semi-dry Riesling is an excellent summer ale).
🍴 Visiting on the weekend? For the best start to your day, fuel up Come on! Cayuga Street Coffee locationthen to Ithaca Farmers Market to prepare fresh products, bakery and local honey and jams.
Stop by when you’re ready for dinner Cafe Cent-Dix for excellent moules-frites, beef tartare and other French-bistro classics. Or, place an order FLX table in Geneva, where the seasonal tasting menu is served at a single farm table with 14 to 16 seats. Finally, cap it all with a hole Pure ice creama local staple since 1936.
